Are people using ChatGPT for product recommendations instead of Google Search?
When I’m looking for products online, I usually start with Google, but lately I’ve seen many people asking AI tools like ChatGPT for recommendations. Are consumers actually changing their search habits, and how significant is this shift?
Ananthalakshmi
From my experience as an SEO analyst, I've noticed that more people are using ChatGPT and other AI tools for product recommendations because they provide quick, personalised answers. Users can easily compare products, understand features, and get recommendations based on their needs without visiting multiple websites.
That said, Google Search is still important for reading reviews, comparing prices, and verifying information before making a purchase. In my view, AI is becoming a valuable product discovery tool, while Google remains the go-to platform for research and validation.
Drupad Madhavan
As an SEO analyst working in Dubai for the past few years, I’ve definitely noticed a shift in how people research products online. Google is still the dominant platform for product searches, but more consumers are now using ChatGPT and other AI assistants as their starting point.
One reason is trust and familiarity. ChatGPT established itself early as one of the first widely adopted AI assistants, and many users have become comfortable asking it questions in a conversational way. Instead of searching through multiple websites, they can simply ask for the best laptops under a certain budget, compare two products, or get recommendations tailored to their needs.
What makes AI particularly appealing is its ability to simplify research. It can quickly summarize features, explain differences, highlight pros and cons, and even provide cautions or limitations that buyers should consider. While AI recommendations are not always perfectly accurate and should be verified before making a purchase, they often help users narrow down their options much faster.
From an SEO perspective, I see AI becoming the discovery layer while Google remains the validation layer. Many users now start with AI for recommendations and comparisons, then move to Google, reviews, videos, and retailer websites to confirm details before purchasing. Rather than replacing Google Search, AI is changing the first step of the buying journey and influencing how consumers make decisions online.